Warriors Part Ways With Nelson

Just days before the Golden State Warriors are set to start training camp, the club's new owners have decided to part ways with Head Coach Don Nelson, the league's all-time winningest coach. The move is expected to be finalized today or over the weekend at the latest, with assistant Keith Smart replacing Nelson and his 1,333 career wins.

The Warriors' new owners, Joe Lacob and Peter Guber, have been linked to rumors of a coaching change since the sale of the team began taking shape earlier this summer. Nelson's past two seasons in Golden State have been filled with injuries and team turmoil highlighted by a public feud with guard Monta Ellis' role and contract. Under Nelson's watch, his Warriors recorded the first-ever upset of a No. 8 seed triumphing over a No. 1 seed in a seven-game series. Following a 48 win season, and narrowly missing the playoffs, the team has entered a downward spiral the past two years, collecting records of 29-53 and 26-56.

Keith Smart will have several newcomers to his roster this season including the talented David Lee who was brought over from New York after averaging 20 points and nearly 12 rebounds. He will also have budding star Stephen Curry leading the way in the backcourt after a tremendous rookie season last year.

By President Corey Ruff - 9-24-10